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Reviews by andrewbanandrew (11)

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Calidris Climbing/Mountaineering Harness (Manufacturer link) popular Average Rating = 4.75/5 Average Rating : 4.75/5

In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Harnesses: Adjustable

Review 5 out of 5 stars

Review by: andrewbanandrew, 2005-08-26


I spent the time to go to three different climbing shops and hung in every single model I could find for at least 5 minutes. The Calidris tied the Corax for comfort, I thought it was even more comfortable than the super plush Misty Mountain Cadillac.

While I've only taken two falls in it, I did manage to take two very similar falls in two different harnesses--in this one, and in a BD Momentum. Both were in the gym, with approximately the same amount of rope out, and belayers of fairly equal weight. The Momentum pinched my kidneys, with Calidris, I felt...well, nothing.

The gear loops are mildly anemic (about 6 biners on each before it starts getting tight), and there's no haul loop. However you can add your own gear loops by tying 3mm tech cord between the ends of the existing molded ones if you like.

The stretchy leg strap adjustment thingy in the back (dunno what the technical term is called) doesn't like to stay adjusted properly but it's fairly easy to fix.

Since it does allow you to drop these stretchy straps, you can pee (for females) or poo without taking your harness off. However the straps drop down by rotating a metal hook, and it is fairly difficult to reattach this metal hook with one hand. A minor thing but it's definitely harder to manage than a harness with plastic clips.


Spatha Knife Average Rating = 2.85/5 Average Rating : 2.85/5

In: Gear: Training & Accessories

Review 2 out of 5 stars

Review by: andrewbanandrew, 2005-08-26


Doesn't fit on most biners, fairly dull, and nearly impossible to open with one hand. I don't believe this knife is worth the trouble, you're better off with something, or anything else really.


Momentum Adjustable Harness (Manufacturer link) popular Average Rating = 4.05/5 Average Rating : 4.05/5

In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Harnesses: Adjustable

Review 3 out of 5 stars

Review by: andrewbanandrew, 2005-05-24


Cheap and does the job, but kind of jarring when you take a lead fall. Then again, I've only taken a lead fall in one other harness, so...


Jaws Belay Device (Manufacturer link) popular Average Rating = 4.32/5 Average Rating : 4.32/5

In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Belay Devices & Descenders

Review 4 out of 5 stars

Review by: andrewbanandrew, 2005-05-24


Locks off fast on the high friction side. Tough to lower someone on the high friction side unless they weigh a lot more than you, though.

I think it's just like an ATC with a bonus feature.


William Screwgate Carabiner (Manufacturer link) Average Rating = 4.57/5 Average Rating : 4.57/5

In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Carabiners: Locking Carabiners

Review 4 out of 5 stars

Review by: andrewbanandrew, 2005-05-24


It does what it's supposed to do but it's pretty huge. Nice to have the keylock gate though.

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